When Lana was born, doctors quickly realized she was unique. She was born with only one aortic valve, a rare congenital heart condition that required her first surgery at just three years old. Throughout her life, she underwent multiple heart surgeries—at 3, 16, 32, and 48. Despite her medical challenges, Lana lived a full and vibrant life. Eventually, meeting her husband Kris and even starting a family. She was energetic, embraced every moment, and never let her condition define her.
A Mother’s Strength, A Daughter’s Journey
Lana and Kris didn’t realize her condition was genetic until their daughter, Hailey, was born with a similar heart defect. During Lana’s pregnancy, doctors detected a hole in Hailey’s heart chamber, and after birth, she was diagnosed with additional growth around her aortic valve. After Hailey was born, she spent several weeks in the NICU and had heart surgery soon after birth.
“It was scary,” Kris shared. “My wife didn’t want our daughter to go through what she went through.”
Despite the early challenges, Hailey thrived. She played lacrosse throughout high school and is now an active 20-year-old who skis, enjoys life, and is pursuing a career working with children. Thanks to heart medicine and ongoing care, she can live life to the fullest—just like her mom.
A Family’s Strength in the Hardest Moments
In 2021, Lana’s health began to decline. Even though she was an adult, she received specialized care at Rocky Mountain Children’s. After months of appointments, she was eventually admitted to RMC for treatment for heart failure. Even with the nature of her condition, her family was hopeful that she would make it through just like she had before.
Just a month after Lana was admitted, Hailey went in for a planned surgery to update her heart valve to accommodate her growing heart. Facing her own health challenges, Lana struggled with the thought of not being able to care for Hailey. In an extraordinary act of care, doctors reserved adjoining hospital rooms so they could be together during Hailey’s recovery.
“It meant so much to her,” Kris said. “She was devastated that she wouldn’t be able to take care of Hailey after her surgery. The doctors and nurses made it possible for them to be close.”
While they got to go home together, sadly, Lana passed away a few months later in July of 2022.
Gratitude for an Incredible Care Team
Throughout Lana’s journey, Kris was by her side. A dedicated husband and father, Kris navigated the immense challenges of caring for both his wife and daughter at the same time. He was a constant source of strength, supporting Hailey while also being there for Lana in her final months. Kris recalls the incredible care they received from the hospital staff, who not only provided medical treatment but also emotional support.
Kris also remembers Lana’s unwavering spirit and how she found solace in the kindness of those around her. Even as she faced her hardest days, she remained surrounded by love and care. The family found peace in the kindness and dedication of their medical team, who treated them with extra care and intention.
Continuing the Legacy
After Lana passed, Kris and Hailey wanted to give back. They knew firsthand how difficult it was to navigate medical challenges and wanted to support others in similar situations. They chose to donate to several hospitals and foundations that would help other children and families going through the same thing and Rocky Mountain Children’s Health Foundation was on their list, ensuring that families in need receive the help and resources they require during challenging times.
“It was important to us to support other families going through the same thing.” Kris shared. “It is so healing knowing that you are not alone in this, and that other people have experienced the same thing.”
Their monthly donations are more than a gift—it’s a way to honor Lana’s legacy and Hailey’s journey, carrying forward a message of resilience, love, and unwavering support.
Helping Families Find Hope
For parents facing a child’s heart condition, or any health challenge, stories like Lana and Hailey’s can be a source of hope. While the journey is often filled with uncertainty, it is also filled with possibility. With the right care, support, and determination, these children can live full, active lives despite their diagnosis.
If you’d like to support families facing a pediatric medical journey, consider joining Kris in donating to Rocky Mountain Children’s Health Foundation. Together, we can continue to bring comfort, resources, and hope to those who need it most.
We are grateful to Kris for sharing his story in honor of his wife Lana. We would love to hear your story! Click here to share your story or make a gift to support families.
